Elijah Adam Benson, a 17-year-old male of White ethnicity from Burnet, Texas, tragically passed away on August 19, 2014. He was a senior at Burnet High School and an active member of the Bulldog Band and varsity BETC . Elijah enjoyed playing the guitar and writing music, and he was very passionate about his faith and sharing it with his friends.
The circumstances surrounding Elijah's death were particularly harrowing. On the night of his death, Elijah and his friend, 26-year-old Travis Leslie Fox, were at the home of Garrett James Ballard, the son of Burnet County Precinct 3 Constable Jimmy Ballard. The three had taken hallucinogenic drugs to celebrate Elijah's birthday. As the effects of the drugs took hold, Ballard retrieved his father's .223-caliber rifle and began shooting. He first shot Fox and then, for reasons he could not clearly explain, shot Elijah as well.
Ballard later admitted to the shootings and was charged with capital murder. He was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Burnet County Sheriff's Office, the Texas Rangers, and the Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Lab.
The loss of Elijah Adam Benson was a devastating event for his family, friends, and the community of Burnet, Texas. His memorial service was held on August 23, 2014, at the Burnet High School Auditorium, attended by many who knew and loved him.
